New Zealand is recognised as one of the most business friendly countries on the globe.

For the last 13 years New Zealand has been in the top 10 least corrupt countries as determined by Transparency International, and for much of that time was ranked #1. In 2016 the World Bank ranked New Zealand #1 for the “Ease of doing business” ahead of countries such as Singapore, Denmark, Hong Kong, the USA and the UK.

The Investor – Residency Visa categories are for those people who are looking to invest significant capital in New Zealand and who intend to live here permanently in the hope of an increased quality of life for them and their families

There are two types of visa under this category:

1. Investor 1 Resident Visa

Requirements include that the applicant:

• Investment a minimum of NZD$10,000,000.00 in acceptable investments in New Zealand for a period of at least 3 years;
• Be able to prove that their finances were lawfully obtained;
• Be able to prove their identity to the satisfaction of INZ; and
• Meet minimum health and character requirements.

There is no age or language restrictions under this visa.

2. Investor 2 Resident Visa

Requirements include that the applicant:

• Have NZD$1,500,000.00 in cash and assets available to invest in acceptable investments in New Zealand for a period of at least 4 years;
• Have NZD$1,000,000.00 in settlement funds to support yourself (and family) on top of the investment funds;
• Be under 65 years of age;
• Speak English (including any family included in the visa application);
• Have a minimum of 3 years recognised business experience;
• Be able to prove that their finances were lawfully obtained;
• Be able to prove their identity to the satisfaction of INZ;
• Comply with travel restrictions for the duration of the visa; and
• Meet minimum health and character requirements, and be a fit and proper person.

Both visa types allow family to be included but they must meet minimum health and character requirements. Both visa types have minimum requirements in respect of time spent in New Zealand during the duration of the visa.

There is no limit to the number of applications for an Investor 1 Resident Visa, but Investor 2 Resident Visa applications are limited to 300 per year.